THE DEVELOPMENT OF NEW TECHNOLOGIES OF SMALL GRAINS CULTIVATION ON ACID SOILS USING CONTEMPORARY BIOTECHNOLOGY

Research within the proposed project will include work on improvement and implementation of economically acceptable technology for small grains growing on acid soils. A special attention will be paid to amelioration of the most important physical and chemical properties of acid soils, by application of various kinds, amounts and ratios of soil amendments. Search for possibility to increase productive potential of small grains on acid soils by modifying existing fertilization and growing systems and applying new and rational ones will also be an important goal of the project. Field trials and application of biotesting methods will enable selection and testing of small grain genotypes and identification of their tolerance to increased soil acidity and high content of mobile aluminum in soil solution. Identification and selection of tolerant genotypes will be based on their productive traits and efficiency of nutrients’ utilization from fertilizers and soil supplies. Selection of tolerant genotypes will serve as a base for their further use in breeding programs. In addition, determination of dominant physiological races of agents causing stem rust and powder mildew will also be carried out, as well as estimation of genotypes’ resistance to these parasites. Based on the research, resistant genotypes will be selected for their implementation in development of new technologies of small grains growing on acid soils.